IRELAND VS FRANCE WORLD CUP QUALIFIER PLAY-OFF BETTING TIPS

You'll find some really interesting odds floating around for this weekend's World Cup Qualifiers. The match with the best story going in and, arguably, some of the best talent on display is going to be the Ireland vs France match-up. These are two-legged ties and the first fixture is going to be held in Ireland. Personally, I think this plays to the Irish's favour, if they can go into the 2nd leg defending a lead and have the ability to notch an away goal. If they concede at home, their odds will increase dramatically, but I fancy the Irish to keep a clean sheet here. The bookmakers odds are a little closer than many neutrals would assume. France are the slim favourites at Blue Square with a price of 11/8 for the outright win. Ireland, despite being the home side, carry a 9/5 price and personally I think that's extremely good value. The draw is listed at 11/5. 
In terms of outright qualification, you can back France at a very slim 2/7 while Ireland are listed at an enticing 5/2. I think this is a winnable fixture for the Irish and containment will be the key in my opinion. 
As usual, the most popular correct score option is the 1-1 draw at 11/2. I think that Ireland 2-0 is the best price on offer with a 14/1 payout. I think the French could have a tough time in front of that Irish crowd and I expect Giovanni Trapatoni's side to be well-versed on the tactics necessary to defeat the French side. You'll find 2-0 to Ireland listed at 14/1 with Blue Square. 2-1 pays out at 10/1, but I fancy Ireland not to concede. I'm also backing draw/Ireland at 11/2 in the half-time/full-time market. 
I simply think the Irish have more to play for, and if they can nullify the threat of Karim Benzema, they will be able to pull this one off. Robbie Keane will be an integral part of the plan and if he can conjure up something special I think it could be enough. 
In terms of first goalscorer betting, Robbie Keane carries a 13/2 price while Kevin Doyle is available at 7/1. Aiden McGeady trades at 14/1 alongside Damien Duff. I would also keep my eye on Darron Gibson should he get the start, and he's listed at 22/1. 
Karim Benzema, Nicolas Anelka and Thierry Henry are all listed at 6/1 to score first with Sidney Govou an interesting selection at 9/1. Personally, I'm backing the Irish on this one, for some odd reason I think that luck will be on their side.